Reflection

To be absorbed in one’s own safety, needs and comfort while others suffer is not only selfish and self-absorbed but a rejection of the values we claim to espouse. Artificial focus on differences, feelings of superiority, and unwillingness to open ourselves to the equality and human needs of others is a betrayal of the gospel. In the present political climate in our country it is worth remembering what it really means to be a Christian.

Prayer

God give me the grace to live as a true follower of Jesus.

Action

Where do I reject others? What needs to change in me?

Suggested Reading

“For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited me in, naked, and you clothed me; I was sick, and you visited me; I was in prison, and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? And when did we see You a stranger, and When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ He will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers or sisters of mine, even the least of them, you did it to me.”Matthew 25:35-40

Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.St. Francis of Assisi

I wish not merely to be called Christian, but also to be Christian.Saint Ignatius

Most Christian ‘believers’ tend to echo the cultural prejudices and worldviews of the dominant group in their country, with only a minority revealing any real transformation of attitudes or consciousness. It has been true of slavery and racism, classism and consumerism and issues of immigration and health care for the poor.Richard Rohr

Ultimately, America’s answer to the intolerant man is diversity, the very diversity which our heritage of religious freedom has inspired.Robert F. Kennedy

Of all religions, the Christian should of course inspire the most tolerance, but until now Christians have been the most intolerant of all men.Voltaire

Christian faith is… basically about love and being loved and reconciliation. These things are so important, they’re foundational and they can transform individuals, families.Philip Yancey

Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion – it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ.Billy Graham